How to Set Up a New SSD in Windows 10

To set up a new SSD in Windows 10, install the drive, then right-click Start and select Disk Management. When the Initialize Disk box appears, choose GPT and select OK. Then right-click the Unallocated space, select New Simple Volume, and follow the wizard to format the drive and give it a letter.

Applies to: Windows 10. Checked against Microsoft Support on September 25, 2026.

These steps are for a new, empty second drive. Initializing or formatting a drive erases what’s on it, so don’t use them on a drive that already has your files. To add a drive that already works, see how to add a drive in Windows 10.

Install the drive

1. Turn off the PC and unplug it. For a laptop, also disconnect the battery if you can.
2. Install the SSD. How depends on the type (see below).
3. Turn the PC back on.

• M.2 or NVMe SSD: insert it at an angle into the M.2 slot on the motherboard, press it down, and secure it with the small screw.
• 2.5-inch SATA SSD or hard drive: mount it in a drive bay, then connect a SATA data cable to the motherboard and a SATA power cable from the power supply.
• External SSD: plug it into a USB port. Many are ready to use, so check File Explorer first.

Check your PC or motherboard manual for the right slot. Touch a metal part of the case first to discharge static.

Initialize the new drive

1. Right-click Start and select Disk Management.
2. The Initialize Disk box usually opens by itself. If it doesn’t, right-click the new disk (marked Not Initialized) and select Initialize Disk.
3. Make sure the new disk is selected, choose GPT, and select OK.

Use GPT on modern PCs. Choose MBR only for an older PC that doesn’t use UEFI. If the disk shows as Offline, right-click it and select Online first.

Create a volume and format the drive

1. Right-click the Unallocated space on the new disk.
2. Select New Simple Volume, and then select Next.
3. Keep the full size, and select Next.
4. Choose a drive letter, such as D, and select Next.
5. Keep NTFS, type a name in Volume label, leave Perform a quick format checked, and select Next.
6. Select Finish.

The drive now appears in File Explorer under This PC.

If the new drive doesn’t show up

• Not in Disk Management: check the cables, or reseat the M.2 drive. Then check that the BIOS or UEFI settings detect it.
• Shows Unknown or Not Initialized: initialize it as shown above.
• Has a volume but no letter: right-click the volume, select Change Drive Letter and Paths, and add a letter.

Frequently asked questions

Can I move Windows to the new SSD?

Windows 10 doesn’t include a cloning tool. Many SSD makers offer free migration software, or you can reinstall Windows on the new drive.

How do I format it again later?

See how to format a drive in Windows 10.

To move your current Windows 10 installation onto the new SSD instead, see how to move Windows 10 to an SSD without reinstalling.

On Windows 11, see how to check SSD size.

Microsoft’s guide is Disk Management in Windows. More help is on our Windows Help & Guides page.

Matt Jacobs

Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.

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